pärnu county - Keskkonnaamet

Transcription

Protected Natural Objects of
PÄRNU COUNTY
Protected Natural Objects of
PÄRNU COUNTY
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CONTENTS
Abbreviations and symbols. . . . . . . .
Protected areas and limited
conservation areas
West Pärnumaa . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . East Pärnumaa. . . . . . . . . . . . . Pärnu City and surroundings. . . .
Erratic boulders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trees and forest stands. . . . . . . . . . Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Links. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY OF
PROTECTED NATURAL OBJECTS
Environmental Board
Pärnu-Viljandi Region
64 Roheline Str., 80010 Pärnu
Phone +372 447 7388
[email protected]
www.keskkonnaamet.ee
ARRANGEMENT OF VISITS TO
PROTECTED NATURAL OBJECTS
Southwest Estonian Region
Nature Management Department
State Forest Management Centre (RMK)
Phone +372 505 8242
[email protected]
www.rmk.ee
VISITING INFORMATION
Pärnu Visitor Centre
4 Uus Str., Pärnu
Phone: +372 447 3000, +372 5330 4134
[email protected]
www.visitparnu.com
Compiled by: Merike Palginõmm,
Nele Saluveer
Consultant: Murel Merivee
Layout by: Akriibia Ltd.
Translated by: K. Nurm
Editor of map: Areal Disain
Printed by: AS Printon Trükikoda
Publication supported by
Environmental Investment Centre
Front page photo:
Evening view from Tornimägi, M. Kose
Back page photo:
Tengmalm’s owl, M. Kose
© Environmental Board 2012
Photo: Long-tailed duck, M. Kose
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Photo: Uulu Beach, V. Vlassov
Pärnumaa (Pärnu County) with its area of 4,807 km2 is Estonia’s largest county. It is
situated in the West-Estonian Coastal Lowland in the south-west of the country. To the
west, there is the Gulf of Livonia, and its land border is shared with the counties of Lääne,
Rapla, Järva, and Viljandi as well as with the Republic of Latvia. By its climate, Pärnumaa
is one of the warmest regions in Estonia.
There are plenty of small islands and islets in the Gulf of Livonia. The largest islands
are Kihnu, Sorgu, Sangelaid, and Manilaid. Two sand dunes run along Pärnumaa’s coast,
and the Pärnu River and its tributaries flow inland towards the coast. The largest lakes
are Tõhela and Ermistu. Pärnumaa has a predominantly flat relief which is covered with
forests, expansive wetlands and meadows. The mild climate and varied toporgraphy
determine the biodiversity and variety of habitats.
In order to protect and preserve natural values, protection areas and limited
conservation have been formed, species’ protection sites have been established, and
animate or inanimate individual objects are conserved. As of 1 January 2012, Pärnumaa
has one national park, 42 limited conservation areas, and 65 protected areas, including 13
landscape protection areas and 34 nature reserves. There are approximately 150 species’
protection sites to protect the habitats of rare species. Approximately 25% of Pärnumaa’s
land territory is under protection.
“Protected Natural Objects of Pärnu County” briefly introduces the unique and important
protected objects of the county.
Several objects were placed under protection many years ago, which refers to their
long protected status and reflects the development of nature conservation. The study
and hiking trails in the protected areas offer good possibilities to learn about the natural
values of Pärnumaa.
Photo: Islets of Manilaid and Anilaid, M. Kose
ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS
LPA landscape protection area
NR nature reserve
RMK State Forest Management Centre
RP rules of protection
Ramsar wetland of international importance www.ramsar.org
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WEST PÄRNUMAA
EAST PÄRNUMAA
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AUDRU POLDER LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
LINDI NATURE RESERVE
TÕSTAMAA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
KASTNA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
TÕHELA-ERMISTU LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
MANIJA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
SORGU ISLAND
SANGELAIUD ISLETS
KIHNU LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
PÄRNU BAY LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
PÄRNU RIVER LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
NÄTSI-VÕLLA NATURE RESERVE
KOLGA NATURE RESERVE
PAADREMA NATURE RESERVE
NEDREMA NATURE RESERVE
MIHKLI NATURE RESERVE
KURESE LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
AVASTE NATURE RESERVE
LAVASSAARE LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
VAHENURME NATURE RESERVE
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KAISMA LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
TAARIKÕNNU NATURE RESERVE
KURGJA-LINNUTAJA FARMLANDS
SAARJÕE LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
OUTCROP AND CAVES OF TORI PÕRGU
(TORI HELL)
SOOMAA NATIONAL PARK
KOSEMÄE FOREST
ALLIKUKIVI CAVES AND SPRINGS
SOOKUNINGA NATURE RESERVE
NIGULA NATURE RESERVE
LAIKSAARE PINE FOREST, RANNAMETSA
RIVER ALLUVIAL FOREST
KIVIKUPITSA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
KABLI NATURE RESERVE
LUITEMAA NATURE RESERVE AND
LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
UULU COASTAL PINE FORESTS,
SURJU COASTAL FORESTS,
UULU-VÕISTE
LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
PÄRNU CITY AND SURROUNDINGS
36 NATURE RESERVE OF PÄRNU COASTAL MEADOW
37 NIIDU LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
38 PÄRNU LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Photo: Tundra swans, V. Vlassov
WEST PÄRNUMAA
1. AUDRU POLDER LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA (proposed NR)
Location: Audru Rural Municipality
Area: 560 ha
Under protection since 2007
Habitats: habitat of endangered or rare species of birds, stop-over and feeding site
suitable for migratory birds.
Species: Tundra and whooper swans; barnacle goose, northern pintail, spotted crake,
corncrake, Baltic dunlin, ruff, black-tailed godwit; spotted and common redshanks;
redshank, wood sandpiper, common greenshank, whimbrel, Eurasian curlew, European
golden plover, red-backed shrike, white-tailed eagle, western marsh harrier, common kestrel.
To prevent floods, Estonia’s first polder was constructed in Audru in 1938. Nowadays,
the polder area is an important breeding site for thousands of tundra swans and other
migratory waterfowl.
2. LINDI NATURE RESERVE
Location: Tõstamaa and Audru Rural Municipalities
Area: 1,095 ha
Under protection since 1958, under rules of protection (RP) since 1999
Habitats: raised bog, species-rich fen, natural old and old broad-leaved forests, herb-rich
forest with Picea abies, deciduous swamp woods, bog woodland.
Species: European yew, fir club-moss, broad-leaved helleborine, lesser twayblade, lady’s
slipper; lesser spotted and white-tailed eagles, common buzzard, three-toed woodpecker,
hazel grouse.
The Lindi Bog developed from a lagoon of the Littorina Sea, surrounded with a high
dune ridge, at the paludification of the mineral soil. The extensive open bog, numerous
hollows and pools as well as the overgrowing lakes together with the surrounding forests
provide habitats for plenty of species of plants and animals.
Photo: Lindi Bog, E. Käär
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4. KASTNA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Location: Tõstamaa Rural Municipality
Area: 123 ha
Habitats: annual vegetation of drift line, perennial vegetation of stony bank, coastal
meadow, Juniperus communis formation, alvar.
Species: marsh angelica, ruddy turnstone, Baltic dunlin, western marsh harrier, red-backed
shrike, ringed plover.
The beach communities, typical of West Estonia, occur in the protected area. Kastna
Peninsula offers splendid views on the beach, in the juniper stands, and on the village
roads. The scattered farms, the historical road network, and an old timber load line
have survived in the landscape. The area boasts mighty juniper stands and the Three
Kastna Oaks.
Photo: Common buzzard, E. Käär
3. TÕSTAMAA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Area: 516 ha land, 766 ha water area
Under protection since 1976, under RP since 2007
Habitats: coastal meadow, sandbank covered with sea water, reef, small island, islet, dry
grassland on calcareous substrate.
Species: marsh angelica, barnacle goose, western marsh harrier, tundra swan, red-backed
shrike, velvet scoter; common, arctic and little terns; barred warbler; spotted and common
redshanks; wood sandpiper.
The landscapes of the protected area include the rolling dune ridges on Tõstamaa Peninsula,
jagged coastal plain and the islets of Tõstamaa. The highest dune is Levaroti Hill (29 m).
The greatest value of the area is its coastal meadows as heritage landscapes.
Photo: Barnacle geese, E. Käär
Photo: Bird-watching tower at Kavaru, H. Luhamaa
Photo: Ringed plover, E. Käär
Photo: Coastal meadow at Saulepi, H. Luhamaa
Photo: Juniper stand at Kastna, M. Palginõmm
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Photo: Lake Tõhela, H. Luhamaa
5. TÕHELA-ERMISTU LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA (proposed NR)
Area: 1,793 ha
Habitats: hard oligo-mesotrophic lake, raised bog, transition mire and quaking bog, natural
old and old broad-leaved forests, coniferous forest on glaciofluvial esker, deciduous
swamp woods, bog woodland.
Species: slender naiad, large white-faced darter; lilypad and dark whitefaces; great bittern,
red-necked grebe, whooper swan, little gull, common redshank, spotted crake, common
crane, European golden plover, wood sandpiper, black tern; pygmy and Ural owls; western
marsh harrier; hazel and black grouse; European nightjar; white-backed, three-toed, black
and grey-headed woodpeckers; red-breasted flycatcher; Eurasian, white-tailed and golden
eagles; red-backed and great grey shrikes; mud loach.
The limited conservation area
and the proposed nature reserve
encompass Pärnumaa’s largest lakes
of Ermistu and Tõhela, and the surrounding wetlands and forests. Lake
Tõhela is the fountainhead of the
Paadrema River. Lake Ermistu with its
floating islands is fed by small brooks
and its only outlet is the Tõstamaa
River. The bottom of the eutrophic
Lake Ermistu is covered with a fivemetre-thick mud layer. The medicinal
mud, or sapropel, is used in medical
institutions.
Photo: Black-headed gulls, E. Käär
Photo: Goosander, E. Käär
6. MANIJA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Area: 204 ha
Habitats: small island and islet landscapes, cultural heritage landscape, coastal and
wooded meadows, coastal lagoon, erratic boulder of Kotkakivi.
Species: sea holly; musk, early-marsh and military orchids; marsh helleborine, common
twayblade, small pasque flower, natterjack toad, western marsh harrier, ringed plover,
Baltic dunlin, ruff, black-tailed godwit, common redshank, ruddy turnstone; common,
arctic and little terns; short-eared owl, barred warbler, red-backed shrike.
The Manija Landscape Protection Area is made up of the islets of Manilaid and Anilaid.
A back ridge with plenty
of erratic boulders, with
Kotkakivi (Eagle’s Rock)
being the highest, runs
along low and narrow
Manilaid. In order to restore
the coastal habitats, cattle
and sheep graze on the
island and the ponds with
the natterjack toad are
well-managed. Manilaid is
included into the UNESCO
Lists of Intangible Cultural
Heritage as a part of the
Kihnu Cultural Space.
Photo: Landscape on Manija, Ü. Tamm
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9. KIHNU LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
Location: Kihnu Rural Municipality
Area: 1,096 ha
Habitats: sandbank covered with sea water, coastal lagoon, drift line, small island, islet,
coastal meadow, sand beach with perennial vegetation, white and grey dunes, Juniperus
communis formation, dry grassland on calcareous substrate, species-rich dry to mesic
grassland, alvar, Molinia meadow, hydrophilous tall herb community, wooded meadow,
species-rich fen, natural old forest, wooded pasture, deciduous swamp woods.
Species: marsh angelica, fen orchid, common redshank, black-tailed godwit, ruff, ringed
plover; grey and ringed seals.
Kihnu Island is low and flat. The island is covered with park-like heath and dry
boreal pine forests, extensive coastal meadows, and species-rich wooded grasslands.
The southern and north-western coasts are bordered with junipered pastures. Plant
communities, rare in Estonia, grow on the sandy beach ridges. The Kihnu cultural space
has been entered into the UNESCO Lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Photo: Sorgu Island, H. Luhamaa
7. SORGU ISLAND (proposed NR)
Area: 3 ha
Habitats: islet landscape.
Species: common shelduck, velvet scoter, common redshank; sandwich and common
terns; alk, ringed plover, ruddy turnstone.
The protected area has been founded primarily for the protection of avifauna. The
small, rocky and inhabited Sorgu Island is a stop-over site for numerous species of birds.
8. SANGELAIUD ISLETS (proposed Kihnu Islets NR)
Location: Kihnu Rural Municipality
Area: 201 ha
Habitats: sandbank covered with sea water, small island, islet.
Species: common shelduck, northern
pintail, velvet scoter, common redshank;
sandwich, common and arctic terns; ringed
plover, ruddy turnstone; grey and ringed
seals.
The protected area consists of several
islets: Sangelaid, Umalaid, Imutlaid, etc.
Their characteristic features are oblong
shapes, pebbly beaches and the surrounding reefy shallows. The islets and sea
offer breeding sites for coastal birds and
staging posts for migratory birds. In April
and May, the neighbourhood of the islets
of Sangelaid and Sillalaid sees the largest
aggregations of ringed seals in the Baltic
Sea.
Photo: Common shelduck, E. Käär
Photo: Ringed seals, J. Tenson
Photo: Wooded meadow at Võhke, H. Luhamaa
Photo: Dwarf everlast, H. Luhamaa
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Photo: Young whooper swans, E. Käär
Photo: Nätsi-Võlla Bog, M. Kose
10. PÄRNU BAY LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
12. NÄTSI-VÕLLA NATURE RESERVE
Location: Audru, Tahkuranna, Tõstamaa and Varbla Rural Municipalities
Area: 103,162.8 ha
Habitats: habitats, stop-over and breeding sites for species of migratory birds.
Species: tundra and whooper swans; barnacle goose, common shelduck, northern pintail,
greater scaup, velvet scoter, smew, spotted crake, corncrake, Baltic dunlin, ruff; blacktailed and bar-tailed godwits; spotted and common redshanks; wood sandpiper, lesser
black-backed gull; common, arctic and little terns; white-tailed eagle, western marsh
harrier, ringed plover, ruddy turnstone, red-backed shrike.
The Pärnu Bay Limited Conservation Area has been founded to conserve the habitats
of protected birds. More than 20,000 waterfowl stop here during their spring and autumn
migration. Pärnu Bay is most important for tundra and whooper swans, as well as for
barnacle geese.
Location: Audru, Koonga and Tõstamaa Rural Municipalities
Area: 10,740 ha
Habitats: dystrophic lake and pond, raised bog, Molinia meadow, alluvial and wooded
meadows, transition mire and quaking bog, species-rich fen, natural old and old broadleaved forests, herb-rich forest with Picea abies, deciduous swamp woods, bog woodland.
Species: sweet gale, Arctic raspberry, lady’s slipper, deer grass, European golden plover,
wood sandpiper, common crane, ruff, whooper swan, Montagu’s harrier, merlin, golden
eagle; black and willow grouse;
red-backed shrike.
After the retreat of Ancylus
Lake 10,000 years ago, a lake was
expanding here, the overgrowth of
which resulted in the formation of
the Nätsi-Võlla Bog. Inaccessible
bog pools and wooded bog
islands expand in the large raised
bog of little human impact. Old
oaks, European crab apples and
several species of orchids grow in
the deciduous forests, developed
from former wooded meadows and
pastures.
11. PÄRNU RIVER LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
Location: Pärnu and Sindi Cities; Sauga, Tori and Vändra Rural Municipalities.
Length: 144 km, incl. 90 km in Pärnumaa
Habitats: river and brook.
Species: thick shelled river mussel, spined loach, bullhead, river lamprey, salmon.
The Pärnu River finds its source at Roosna-Alliku in Järvamaa and debouches into
Pärnu Bay. The Pärnu River Limited Conservation Area aims at the protection of the river
and brook habitats as well as of river biota.
Photo: Sweet gale, E. Käär
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Photo: Kingfisher, E. Käär
Photo: Red-backed shrike, V. Voolaid
13. KOLGA NATURE RESERVE
15. NEDREMA NATURE RESERVE
Location: Varbla Rural Municipality
Area: 274 ha
Habitats: wooded dune, river, brook, natural old forest, deciduous swamp woods,
deciduous alluvial forest.
Species: flat-stemmed clubmoss, common twayblade, bird’s nest orchid, spined loach,
river lamprey, sand lizard; white-tailed eagle; eagle owl and pygmy owls; stock dove,
hazel grouse; three-toed, black and white-backed woodpeckers; red-breasted flycatcher.
The Kolga Dunes, formed from the sediments of Baltic Ice Lake and Ancylus Lake, are
natural monuments of national importance and have been entered into the Book on
Virgin Nature of Estonia. Heath and boreal forests grow on the dunes. An alluvial forest
grows on the high sandy banks of the Kolga Brook, which flows in its natural bed and
debouches into Vaiste Bay.
Location: Koonga Rural Municipality
Area: 2,429 ha
Habitats: natural dystrophic lake and pond, wooded meadow, raised bog, species-rich
fen, deciduous old forest, deciduous swamp woods, bog woodland.
Species: sweet gale; common spotted, early-marsh, heath-spotted and fragrant orchids;
broad-leaved and marsh helleborines; common and European honey buzzards; Ural owl;
white-backed and grey-headed woodpeckers; European golden plover, common crane,
wood sandpiper, common redshank.
The nature reserve with its damp ground and varied relief lies between two bogs. The
local natural wetland communities have a high protection value. The Nedrema Wooded
Meadow is Europe’s largest managed wooded meadow. Mycologists value the area for its
plentiful species of fungi,
with numerous rare and
uncommon species among
them. In Nedrema, 236
species of vascular plants
grow, 17 species of plants
are under protection, 15 out
of which are different
orchids. 54 species of
vascular plants per square
metre have been counted
in the Nedrema Wooded
Meadow.
14. PAADREMA NATURE RESERVE
Location: Varbla Rural Municipality
Area: 1,332 ha
Habitats: species-rich fen, deciduous swamp woods, hydrophilous tall herb community,
natural old and old broad-leaved forests, herb-rich forest with Picea abies, wooded and
species-rich meadows.
Species: sweet gale, orchids, white-tailed eagle, common crane, wood sandpiper, corncrake,
white-spotted bluethroat, red-backed shrike.
The groundwater-fed Paadremaa Fen, developed as a result of the paludification of
mineral soil, expands in the nature reserve. The fen is prevalently surrounded with
deciduous swamp woods and, in places, with coniferous forests. Some oaks, older than
100 years, and 150-200-year-old mixed forests with pines grow on the back ridge in the
south-east of the nature reserve.
Photo: Nedrema Wooded Meadow, H. Luhamaa
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Photo: Lady’s slipper, E. Käär
16. MIHKLI NATURE RESERVE
Area: 89 ha
Habitats: species-rich oak forest, old broad-leaved deciduous forest.
Species: lady’s slipper, species of deciduous trees.
The nature reserve has been founded to protect the oak forest and its biodiversity. The
Mihkli Oak Forest with its age of ca 250 years is one of Estonia’s most significant natural
oak stands. The circumference of the largest oak amounts to 3.83 m and its maximum
height is 23 m. European crab apples and 120-130-year-old birches grow in the shade of
the old oak forest.
17. KURESE LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Area: 522 ha
Habitats: Juniperus communis formation, alvar, species-rich fen, natural old forest, herbrich forest with Picea abies, wooded pasture.
Species: maidenhair spleenwort, lady’s slipper, common twayblade; fly, military, fragrant
and common spotted orchids; marsh, broad-leaved and dark-red helleborines; marsh
fritillary.
Kurese boasts its nucleated villages, extensive stone fences, ancient fields as well as
the karst areas, protected species and their habitats. The local landscapes developed on
the coral reef of a tropical sea 420 m years ago. Now the hill of Mihkli Salumägi (Michael’s
Photo: Site of former Kurese Village, U. Vahur
Grove Hill) towers on the limestone tor. The Kibura Karst Area, Salumägi Hill and two
springs have been entered into the Book on Virgin Nature of Estonia. The main value of
the landscapes is the wooded pastures and alvars with sparse juniper stands, which are
restored and managed. Kurese Villlage dates back to the Bronze Age. The local findings –
ancient fields, a burial mound and a cupmarked sacred stone – are heritage objects.
18. AVASTE NATURE RESERVE
Location: Koonga Rural Municipality in Pärnu County, Vigala Rural Municipality in Rapla
County
Area: 5,226 ha, incl. 3,424 ha in Pärnu County
Habitats: raised bog, transition mire and quaking bog, species-rich fen, deciduous swamp
woods, bog woodland, natural old and old broad-leaved forests, Molinia meadow, wooded
meadow, grassland on calcareous substrate .
Species: sweet gale, moor rush, fen and bog orchids, lady’s slipper and other orchids;
mud and white beak sedges, black stork, black-tailed godwit; golden, white-tailed, lesser
spotted eagles; short-eared owl, northern goshawk, European honey buzzard; western
marsh, Montagu’s and hen harriers; capercaillie, great snipe, white-backed woodpecker.
The nature reserve boasts one of Estonia’s largest fens, the Avaste Fen with its
geological, water protection and ecological values, as well as the damp forests which
offer habitats to several rare species. Researchers have long and profoundly studied the
vegetation, insects and birds of the wetlands. The ancient Soontagana Stronghold on the
edge of the Avaste Fen, dating back to the 2nd millennium, is a heritage site.
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19. LAVASSAARE LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA (proposed NR)
Location: Audru, Halinga and Koonga Rural Municipalities
Area: 8,599 ha
Habitats: dystrophic lake and pond, dry grassland on calcareous substrate, wooded
meadow, raised bog, transition mire and quaking bog, old deciduous forest, bog woodland,
Juniperus communis formation, alvar.
Species: Slavonian grebe; tundra and whooper swans; common crane, European golden
plover, Baltic dunlin, ruff, black-tailed godwit, whimbrel, common redshank, wood
sandpiper, little gull; white-tailed and golden eagles; western marsh, hen and Montagu’s
harriers; Ural owl; willow and black grouse, capercaillie, European nightjar; black and
white-backed woodpeckers; red-breasted flycatcher; red backed and great grey shrikes.
The objective of the nature reserve is to protect the Lavassaare Wetlands and the
surrounding forest and heritage communities. The proposed nature reserve will also cover
Virussaare Bog Island, which is called Lavassaare Hill and rises 31 m a.s.l. as a relic from
the glacial age. You can go there by train, run by the Estonian Museum Railway. Lake
Lavassaare is a well-known recreation place.
20. VAHENURME NATURE RESERVE
Photo: Black-tailed godwit, M. Sepp
Photo: Baltic dunlin, H. Luhamaa
Location: Halinga Rural Municipality
Area: 221 ha
Habitats: dry grassland and scrubland on calcareous substrates, Fennoscandian wooded
meadow, alkaline species-rich fen, natural old and old broad-leaved forests, herb-rich
forest with Picea abies, wooded pasture.
Species: sweet gale, Saussurea alpina subsp. esthonica, Siberian iris, bog violet; common
spotted, blood-red Dactylorhiza, early-marsh, fragrant, lesser butterfly orchids; marsh
helleborine, common twayblade, black stork, hazel grouse.
The main values of the nature reserve are its species-rich wooded meadows, natural
forests and habitats of protected species. The former farm fields are developing into
grasslands and forests are growing in the place of pastures. 239 species of vascular
plants, 12 of which are protected, grow in the nature reserve. In a local wooded meadow,
73 species of vascular plants per square metre have been counted.
Photo: Nest of golden eagle, E. Lelov
Photo: Maidenhair spleenwort, U. Vahur
Photo: Fragrant orchid, M. Palginõmm
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Kivi-Vigala
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jõgi
Ahaste
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Põhara Malda
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KIHNU
Rootsiküla 9
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Lemsi
Koksi tamm
Vaatetorn / Observation tower
Maantee / Main road
Muu tee / Other road
Raudtee / Railway
Maakonnapiir /
County boundary
LI I VI
Võidu
Rannametsa
LA HT
Ra
nn
a
Rei
u
Ur
me
t sa
Arumetsa
a
jõ
gi
jõg
i
31
i
Kõpu
ma jõ
va
Al
Surju
34
Asuja rahn
Krundiküla
jõg
i
KILINGINÕMME
Lodja
28
gi
jõ
Kalita
i
jõg
Tihemetsa
Saarde
Leissaare tamm
e
Pal
27
Leipste
Kamara
MÕISAKÜLA
Veelikse
Tali
Tõrsepa tamm
Veelikse
Kabli Massiaru
32
Piltsi kivi
5
6
7
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AUDRU POLDER LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
LINDI NATURE RESERVE
TÕSTAMAA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
KASTNA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
TÕHELA-ERMISTU LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
MANIJA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
SORGU ISLAND
SANGELAIUD ISLETS
KIHNU LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
PÄRNU BAY LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
PÄRNU RIVER LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
NÄTSI-VÕLLA NATURE RESERVE
KOLGA NATURE RESERVE
PAADREMA NATURE RESERVE
NEDREMA NATURE RESERVE
MIHKLI NATURE RESERVE
KURESE LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
AVASTE NATURE RESERVE
LAVASSAARE LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
VAHENURME NATURE RESERVE
EAST PÄRNUMAA
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
KAISMA LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
TAARIKÕNNU NATURE RESERVE
KURGJA-LINNUTAJA FARMLANDS
SAARJÕE LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
OUTCROP AND CAVES OF TORI PÕRGU (TORI HELL)
SOOMAA NATIONAL PARK
KOSEMÄE FOREST
ALLIKUKIVI CAVES AND SPRINGS
SOOKUNINGA NATURE RESERVE
NIGULA NATURE RESERVE
LAIKSAARE PINE FOREST, RANNAMETSA RIVER ALLUVIAL FOREST
KIVIKUPITSA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
KABLI NATURE RESERVE
LUITEMAA NATURE RESERVE AND LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
UULU COASTAL PINE FORESTS, SURJU COASTAL FORESTS, UULUVÕISTE LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA
30
33
Treimani
hk
Ristiküla
34
Häädemeeste
Kaitseala piir /
Protected Area boundary
Hoiuala piir / Limited
Conservation Area boundary
Kaitsealune puu / Protected tree
Kaitsealune rändrahn /
Protected boulder
Matkarada / Hiking trail
Soometsa
34
Sääre
Linaküla
Ilvese
jõg
Supsi
gi
Võiste
8
Metsaääre
Jaamaküla
Laadi
Tahkuranna
10
MANIJA 6
Reiu
Uulu tammed (2)
35
Raudna
Soo-otsa
rändrahn
Silla
3
i
26
Tammuru
38
g
jõ
õgi
Lemm j
Võnnukivi rändrahn
Seljametsa
Uulu
Liu
Päkapiku
mänd
Taali
Pulli
PÄRNU LAHT
2
ti
ves
Na
õ gi
2
Seliste
jõg
i
Kilksama
Eametsa
Lemmetsa
Kaansoo
Tellissaare
viie valla piirikivi
Vihtra
Tori Jõesuu
Lä
3
11
Nurme
PÄRNU 36
Lindi
2
Sa
ug
a
25
jõ
gi
24
i
jõg
2
4
5
Kastna tammed (3)
3
Tõrvanõmme mänd
Are
a
rin
Tõstamaa
Selja Piistaoja
Urge
Sauga
SINDI
Uruste tamm
Audru
11
Kihlepa
Tammiste
Põldeotsa 1 Papsaare
36 11 37
Paikuse
tamm
Kõima
11
Suigu
Jõõpre
12
5
Niidu
Ridalepa
u
rn
Pä
Ku
Ermistu
järv
13
õ
ij
õgi
ej
te j
lis
al
12
k
Sa
Lavassaare
Oara
11
H
Männikuste
Halinga
Tootsi
gi
Reiu jõgi
15
19
Tõhela
järv
Varbla
Lavassaare
järv
19
em a
a dr
Pa
Nõmmeküla
rändrahn
Koonga
Rätsepa rändrahn
Suurejõe
Vaki künnapuu
Mõisaküla
PärnuJaagupi
19
1
2
3
4
23
Vändra
Vaki
Pärnjõe
jõgi
Vatla
14
Tõusi
Vahenurme
Viluvere
rändrahn
Vas
k
Lõpe
Kergu
Kereka tamm
WEST PÄRNUMAA
11
Kadjaste
Ar
sa jõgi
Uduna tamm
14
16
22
Sohlu mänd
Kaisma
Libatse
20
17
Rehekivi
Oidrema
Libatse tamm
gi
jõ
õi
am
Kõmsi
18
õgi
i
a
lik
Al
n
Va
LIHULA
21
jõg
Enge
j
ru
Kä
Tu ud i jõ gi
Tuudi
Eidapere
Kirbla
29
36 NATURE RESERVE OF PÄRNU COASTAL MEADOW
37 NIIDU LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
38 PÄRNU LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
1:430 000
1 cm kaardil = 4,3 km looduses
Metsapoole
Ikla
Photo: View of Pärnu, M. Kose
24
25
EAST PÄRNUMAA
21. KAISMA LIMITED
CONSERVATION AREA
Photo: Saussurea alpina subsp. esthonica, M. Palginõmm
Location: Vändra Rural Municipality
Area: 2,568 ha
Habitats: hard oligo-mesotrophic lake,
raised bog, transition mire and quaking
bog, species-rich fen, natural old and
old broad-leaved forests, bog woodland.
Species: Saussurea alpina subsp.
esthonica, lady’s slipper, whooper
swan, European golden plover, black
tern, European honey buzzard; western
marsh, hen and Montagu’s harriers;
golden eagle, Ural owl, eagle owl; hazel
and black grouse; capercaillie, common
crane, black stork, black woodpecker,
European nightjar, mud loach.
The lakes of Kaisma Suurjärv (Big
lake) and Väikejärv (Small lake) formed
at the stage of the Jolida Sea. The
lakes with mud-covered bottoms are
connected with each other. The shores
are mostly peaty or muddy, while the
eastern shores are, in places, covered
with shingle and large erratic boulders.
The lakes are surrounded by the bog
and bog pine forest, where several
human-shy species have found their
habitats.
Photo: Great spotted woodpecker, E. Käär
22. TAARIKÕNNU NATURE RESERVE
Location: Vändra Rural Municipality in Pärnu County, Kehtna Rural Municipality in Rapla
County
Area: 2,820 ha, incl. 2,349 ha in Pärnu County
Habitats: dystrophic lake and pond, raised bog, transition mire and quaking bog, depression
on peat substrates of Rhynchosporion, natural old forest, herb-rich forest with Picea abies,
deciduous swamp woods, bog woodland.
Species: European golden plover, wood sandpiper, common greenshank, northern goshawk,
golden eagle, Ural owl, capercaillie, common crane, black stork; grey-headed, black, whitebacked and three-toed woodpeckers; European nightjar, red-breasted flycatcher.
The bogs of Taarikõnnu (also known as Põrguraba – Hell’s Bog), Laianiidu and Lõo, or
Aruniidu, result from the paludification of waters and have not been much affected by
human activities. The rivers of Nurtu and Sauga have their sources in the nature reserve.
Photo: Early-marsh orchid, M. Palginõmm
Photo: Black grouse, V. Voolaid
26
27
Photo: Capercaillie, M. Kose
23. KURGJA-LINNUTAJA
FARMLANDS
(proposed Kurgja LPA)
Location: Vändra Rural
Municipality
Area: 103 ha
Habitats: farm park, heritage
landscape, natural forest,
habitat of endangered or rare
species.
Species: pygmy owl, capercaillie, hazel grouse; black
and grey-headed woodpeckers;
red-breasted flycatcher, spined
loach, bullhead.
The protected area includes
the former farmlands owned
by Carl Robert Jakobson, and
is of mainly cultural-historical
importance. The forests, which
surround the farm and provide
habitats for the capercaillie, will
be merged with the landscape
protection area.
Photo: Pygmy owl, R. Lillemäe
Photo: Black stork, U. Sellis
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29
26. SOOMAA NATIONAL PARK
Photo: Outcrop of Tori Põrgu, M. Palginõmm
24. SAARJÕE LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Location: Vändra Rural Municipality
Area: 200 ha in Pärnu County
Habitats: river, brook, Molinia meadow, alluvial meadow, spring, springfen, natural old
and old broad-leaved forests, herb-rich forest with Picea abies, deciduous swamp wood,
bog woodland.
Species: lady’s slipper, thick shelled river mussel, bullhead, black stork.
The protected area is located in Transitional Estonia’s forest zone where damp and
humid mixed-deciduous forests grow. The river of Saarjõgi flows through the area in its
natural bed. In the west, the protected area borders on the Pikkmetsa River.
Location: Paikuse, Tori and Vändra Rural Municipalities in Pärnu
County, Kõpu and Suure-Jaani Rural Municipalities in Viljandi
County
Area: 39,640 ha
Habitats: wooded dune, river, brook, alluvial meadow, raised
bog, natural old forest, herb-rich forest with Picea abies,
deciduous swamp wood, bog woodland, alluvial swamp wood.
Species: lady’s slipper, thick shelled river mussel, Dytiscus latissimus, scarce fritillary,
large copper butterfly, spined loach, bullhead; tundra and whooper swans; Baltic dunlin,
great snipe, corncrake; lesser spotted and golden eagles; Ural owl; black, grey-headed,
white-backed and three-toed woodpeckers; black stork, capercaillie; black and willow
grouse; red-breasted flycatcher, flying squirrel, Eurasian otter.
The development of Soomaa and its nearly intact bog expanses started about 10,000
years ago, after the Baltic Ice Lake had found an outflow into the ocean. Forests, wetlands,
alluvial meadows, and cultural heritage are protected in the national park.
Forests cover a third of the area, while wetlands expand across the rest. The bogs of
Soomaa make up Estonia’s most important breeding areas for golden plovers, whimbrels,
and wood sandpipers. Thousands of geese stop over in the Kuresoo Bog during their
migration.
The bogs are separated by the rivers of Navesti, Halliste, Raudna, and Lemmijõgi.
Flooded rivers bring forth “the fifth season”, which means an overwhelming flood in
Soomaa. Suspension bridges across the rivers as well as one-log-boats are unique features
of the area.
The wetlands are bordered with swamp forests. Fen forests grow in the areas with
decomposed peat layer while bog forests spread on bog peat. Decaying swamp forests
have arisen when swamp forests have been drained for a long time. Dry and sunlit heath
and boreal pine forests grow on the dunes.
Soomaa is a part of the network of wetlands and bird areas of international importance
and of the Protected Area Network of Parks (PAN Parks).
The Riisa Study Trail (4.8 km) starts at the car park on the Pärnu–Jõesuu–Tõramaa Road,
and is provided with a map and an information board. The boardwalk runs in the bog
and along the Navesti River bank forest. www.rmk.ee
25. OUTCROP AND CAVES OF TORI PÕRGU (TORI HELL)
Location: Tori Rural Municipality
Area: 2 ha
Habitats: sandstone denudation, cave.
Species: kingfisher, sand martin.
In Tori, on the left bank of the Pärnu River, the most dignified Central-Devonian
sandstone outcrop in the north-east of Europe is denuded. The outcrop is 9 m in height
and 400 m in length, and it encompasses three caves of spring origin. The Tori Outcrop
is an internationally known place for finding fossil fish and plants. Kingfishers and sand
martins breed on the sandstone denudations. The folk lore has created plenty of vivid
stories about the Tori Hell and Old Heathen’s deeds there.
Photo: Soomaa National Park, M. Kose
Photo: Siberian iris, M. Palginõmm
30
31
Photo: Inside of Allikukivi Cave, V. Soomann
27. KOSEMÄE FOREST
(proposed LPA)
Location: Saarde Rural Municipality
Area: 47 ha
Habitats: natural old forest.
Species: Tengmalm’s and Ural owls; red-breasted flycatcher.
Forest stands grow on the sand dunes. The main value of the area is the dry boreal
forest with old pine trees and cowberries. Kosemäe is a favoured recreation spot favoured
by local people.
28. ALLIKUKIVI CAVES AND SPRINGS
(proposed LPA)
Area: 17 ha
Habitats: spring, springfen, cave, natural forest.
Species: large copper butterfly, brown long-eared bat, northern bat.
The Allikukivi (Spring Rock) Caves are located on the Devonian red sandstone slope
of the Allikukivi Ancient Valley. The spring-fed cave consists of three grottoes. With its
length of 33 metres the Allikukivi Cave is the third-longest natural cave in Estonia.
Photo: Ural owl, E. Käär
32
33
Photo: Wood sandpiper, V. Voolaid
Photo: Nigula Mire, V. Vlassov
29. SOOKUNINGA NATURE RESERVE
30. NIGULA NATURE RESERVE
Area: 5,869 ha
Habitats: river, brook, tall-herb meadow, alluvial meadow,
meadow with Alopecurus pratensis and Sanguisorba officinalis,
wooded meadow, raised bog, transition mire and quaking bog,
old deciduous and natural old forest, herb-rich forest with Picea
abies, deciduous swamp wood, bog woodland.
Species: whooper swan, lesser white-fronted goose, corncrake, wood sandpiper, common
crane; lesser spotted and golden eagles; European honey buzzard, Montagu’s harrier; Ural
and pygmy owls; hazel grouse, European nightjar, black stork; white-backed, three-toed
and grey-headed woodpeckers; black grouse, capercaillie, red-backed shrike, red-breasted
flycatcher, pond bat, Eurasian otter.
The nature reserve conserves extensive wetlands and forests as well as their biota. The
Sookuninga and Nigula Mires of international importance and the Ziemelu Purvi Ramsar
Area in Latvia make up the first cross-border wetland of Estonia. On the Estonian side,
there are seven mires, where several Estonia’s and Latvia’s rivers find their sources or
get there water. The nature reserve encompasses the oldest large bogs of South-West
Estonia. The nature reserve is an important breeding area of large carnivores, a lek site
for capercaillies as well as a breeding and feeding site for endangered species of birds.
In Sookuninga, some traces of human activities can be found: farm sites, secret roads
sunk into mire, war-time sanctuaries on bog islands, etc.
Hiking trail. The Sandra boardwalk (300 m) lies in the Rongu Bog. The trail passes
through the bog and finishes at an observation tower. www.rmk.ee
Location: Häädemeeste and Saarde Rural Municipalities
Area: 6,398 ha
Habitats: dystrophic lake and pond, hydrophilous tall herb
community, meadow with Alopecurus pratensis and Sanguisorba
officinalis, raised bog, transition mire and quaking bog, natural
old and old broad-leaved forests, herb-rich forest with Picea
abies, wooded pasture, deciduous swamp woods, bog woodland.
Species: Polyporus tuberaster, Lindberg’s sphagnum, least water lily, drooping woodreed,
lady’s slipper, Baltic marsh, narrow-leaved marsh and bog orchids; lesser twayblade,
whooper swan, lesser white-fronted goose, corncrake, wood sandpiper, common crane,
lesser spotted eagle, Montagu’s harrier, honey buzzard; Ural and pygmy owls; hazel,
willow and black grouse; European nightjar, black stork; white-backed, three-toed and
grey-headed woodpeckers; red-backed shrike, red-breasted flycatcher, flying squirrel.
Nigula is known as Estonia’s oldest and best researched mire and forest ecosystem. The
Nigula Bird Area and Wetland of international importance belongs to the transboundary
North-Livonian Wetland Complex. The relict lake of Nigula and five bog islands lie in the
wetlands. On the island called Salupeaks a deciduous forest grows, which is a relic from
the warm and moist climate 5,000–6,000 years ago. Flying squirrels and large predators
live in the local forests, while the fields offer food for migrating cranes, swans and geese.
A study trail starts from the car park near Lake Nigula, where you can also find an
information board provided with a map and explanations. www.rmk.ee
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35
31. LAIKSAARE PINE FOREST, RANNAMETSA RIVER ALLUVIAL FOREST
(proposed NR)
Location: Häädemeeste and Saarde Rural Municipalities
Area: 1.8 ha
Habitats: natural river, brook, natural old forest, herb-rich forest with Picea abies,
deciduous alluvial forest.
Species: tree lungwort, Ural owl, hazel grouse; white-backed, three-toed, grey-headed
and middle spotted woodpeckers; red-breasted flycatcher.
The valley of the Rannametsa River, which flows through the protected area, intersects
sharply into the high moraine bank. In places, the steep slopes reach the height of
15 metres. Big differences in the growing conditions and indentations in the river valley
create favourable preconditions for the existence of diversified and valued biota in a
relatively small area.
A study trail goes outside the borders of the protected area. The trail (2.2 km) starts at
the office of the Laiksaare Forest District, where you can also find an information board
with a map and explanations. www.rmk.ee
32. KIVIKUPITSA LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Location: Häädemeeste Rural Municipality
Area: 135 ha
Habitats: boulder field, natural old and old broad-leaved forests, coniferous forest on
glaciofluvial esker.
Species: common twayblade, bird’s nest orchid; pygmy and Ural owls; hazel grouse;
grey-headed, black, white-backed and three-toed woodpeckers; red-breasted flycatcher.
The protected area is situated near the Latvian border, which is designated with a
landmark called Kivikupits (Stone Landmark). There is a gravelly and wooded ridge in the
north-westerly – south-easterly direction of approximately 600 m in length, up to 150 m
in width, and about 7 m in height.
Photo: Rannametsa River, V. Vlassov
Photo. Common twayblade, M. Palginõmm
Photo: Kabli Bird Station, V. Palginõmm
33. KABLI NATURE RESERVE
Location: Häädemeeste Rural Municipality
Area: 733 ha, incl. 24 ha land, 709 ha water area
Habitats: mudflat and sandflat, coastal meadow,
white, grey and wooded dunes, humid dune
slack, river, brook, natural old forest, deciduous
swamp woods.
Species: marsh angelica, sandy pink, Baltic marsh
orchid, river lamprey, natterjack toad, salmon,
Eurasian otter.
The nature reserve has been founded to
protect the coastal landscape, protected species
and birds’ migratory routes. The Kabli Bird Station
was launched in 1969 for the observation of
migrating birds. Every autumn, an average of
10,000–20,000 birds is ringed in Kabli. Furthermore,
the migration of bats, dragonflies and butterflies
has been studied here in the past years. The
bird station works annually from middle August
to early November.
A study trail starts at the RMK Kabli Nature
Centre and is provided with a map with
explanations. The Kabli Bird Station and a bird
watching tower are located on the marked trail.
www.rmk.ee
Photo: Goldcrest, M. Palginõmm
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37
Photo: Singing natterjack toad, M. Kose
34. LUITEMAA NATURE RESERVE AND LIMITED
CONSERVATION AREA
Location: Tahkuranna and Häädemeeste Rural Municipalities
Area: 8,745 ha, incl. 6,250 ha land and 2,495 ha water area
Habitats: sandbank covered with sea water, sandflat and
mudflat, coastal lagoon, large shallow bay, perennial vegetation
of stony bank, small island, islet, coastal meadow, grey and wooded dunes, humid dune
slack, dystrophic lake and pond, river, brook, Molinia meadow, hydrophilous tall herb
community, wooded meadow, degraded raised bog still capable of natural regeneration,
transition mire and quaking bog, spring, springfen, sandstone pavement, natural old and
old broad-leaved forests, herb-rich forest with Picea abies, deciduous swamp woods, forest
of screes and ravines, bog woodland, alluvial swamp wood, broad-leaved alluvial forest.
Species: hairy agrimony, marsh angelica, yellow marsh saxifrage, meadow gladiolus,
perennial honesty, shining meadow rue; Baltic marsh, heath-spotted, lesser butterfly
and early-marsh orchids; thick shelled river mussel, spined loach, salmon, river lamprey,
barnacle goose; tundra and whooper swans; smew, velvet scoter, northern pintail, Eurasian
curlew, whimbrel, ruff, European golden plover, little crake, wood sandpiper, common
redshank, bar-tailed godwit, corncrake, white-tailed eagle, western marsh harrier; Ural,
Tengmalm’s and pygmy owls; hazel grouse, European nightjar, black stork, stock dove,
black grouse, capercaillie, woodlark; great grey and red-backed shrikes; red-breasted
flycatcher, pond bat, grey seal.
The nature reserve expands in a varied landscape: the sea with a jagged coastline,
a beach ridge dating back the Littorina Sea 5,000 years ago, Estonia’s highest dunes,
expansive coastal meadows and bogs, different forest types. One of the reserve’s key
Photo: Luitemaa, L. Lusik
values is its coastal meadows. The local population of the meadow gladiolus is one of the
largest in Europe. The coastal meadows with low grass and the puddles with shallow water
provide necessary habitats for several rare species, such as the natterjack toad, Baltic
dunlin, ruff, black-tailed godwit, and common redshank. The coastal sea and meadows
are perfect feeding and stop-over sites for water birds. Up to 15,000 barnacle geese and
about 3,000 greater white-fronted geese and bean geese stop here on their migration
routes. Bog pine forests, fen birch forests, as well as primeval, deciduous and alluvial
forests grow in the damp and wet areas. About 500 species of plants and 263 species of
birds, out of which 130 are breeding species, occur in Luitemaa.
Study trail. The Tolkuse Study Trail (2.2 km) starts at the car park on kilometre 162 on
the Tallinn–Pärnu–Ikla Road, where you can find an information board with a map and
explanations. The trail runs in the bog and on the dunes. Splendid views of the nature
reserve and of the Gulf of Livonia open from the watching tower on Tornimägi Hill.
www.rmk.ee
35. UULU COASTAL PINE FORESTS, SURJU COASTAL FORESTS, UULU-VÕISTE
LIMITED CONSERVATION AREA (proposed LPA)
Location: Tahkuranna Rural Municipality
Area: 274 ha
Under protection since protected area 1958, limited conservation area since 2007
Habitats: wooded dune, natural old forest, herb-rich forest with Picea abies.
Species: Eurasian hobby, stock dove, hoopoe, black woodpecker, mistle thrush, woodlark.
The protected area lies on two sides of the Tallinn–Pärnu–Ikla Road. On the inlandward
dunes, the Jõulumäe Pine Forests grow. The coastal landscapes and recreational forests,
typical of South-West-Estonia, are preserved as permanent forests. The recreation area
is well accessible and provides different facilities for resting and sporting.
38
39
37. NIIDU LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Location: Pärnu City
Area: 84 ha
Habitats: forest landscape, forest communities, wooded meadow, riverside meadow
community.
Species: serin, tawny owl, stock dove, grey-headed woodpecker.
The forests here are of different ages, with several layers and numerous species. The
age of the growing trees strikes with awe: the oaks are 100, the black alders 130, the
lime trees 180 and the pines 150-200 years old. On the right bank of the Pärnu River,
the protected area is crossed by the Olympic Champion Jüri Jaanson Health Trail, which
provides good resting and sporting facilities.
38. PÄRNU LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AREA
Photo: Highland cattle on coastal meadow, M. Palginõmm
Area: 516 ha
Habitats: wooded dune, humid dune slack, natural old forest, herb-rich forest with Picea
abies, deciduous swamp woods.
Species: fir clubmoss, common twayblade, broad-leaved helleborine, early-marsh orchid,
honey buzzard, Ural owl, hazel grouse, European nightjar; grey-headed and black
woodpeckers; woodlark, red-backed shrike, red-breasted flycatcher.
The protected area is a part of the forest landscape of Pärnu City’s Green Belt. The
city people love the area as a good berry and mushroom forest as well as a place for
different sports events.
36. NATURE RESERVE OF PÄRNU COASTAL MEADOW
Area: 371 ha
Habitats: coastal lagoon, coastal meadow, white dune.
Species: soft hornwort, gibbous duckweed, white elm, shining meadow rue, woolly
butterbur, marsh angelica, meadow gladiolus; fen, early-marsh, Baltic marsh and common
spotted orchids; wild garlic, ruff.
The nature reserve consists of three detached plots of land. The areas are fully or
partially flooded during storms. The coastal meadow is an important stop-over site for
numerous species of migratory birds. The lapwing, common redshank, ringed plover,
swans, ducks and several species of passerines nest and breed here. In order to restore
and manage the habitats, the vegetation is mown and cattle graze here. Birds can be
observed from the bird watching tower in the Old-Pärnu zone of the nature reserve on
the right bank of the Pärnu River.
Photo: Gibbous duckweed, M. Palginõmm
Photo: Sand lizard, M.- L. Rebane
Photo: Shining meadow rue, J. Tenson
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41
ERRATIC BOULDERS
The glaciers of the latest ice age brought erratic boulders to the territory of Estonia.
When placing a boulder under protection, its natural value, measurements, location and
connections with folk lore are taken into account. There are 22 erratic boulders under
protection in Pärnumaa. However, the rocks here have quite moderate measurements.
The tallest and the largest rock – Võnnukivi, or Kalevipoja Vestitasku Rock (Rock of
Kalevipoeg’s waistcoat pocket) – is situated in the Pärnu River. The Soo-otsa Erratic
Boulder, however, has the biggest girth. The Kotkakivi Rock (Eagle’s Rock) lies in the
centre of Manilaid Islet. A legend says that before the island was set there was just a
rock in the sea, and an eagle used to sit on that boulder. The folk lore also knows many
legends about the Estonian national hero Kalevipoeg and his enemy Old Heathen, which
are connected with several erratic boulders.
Photo: Kotkakivi Rock (Eagle’s Rock), M. Palginõmm
Photo: Riinu Lime, U. Lekk
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43
TREES AND FOREST STANDS
In Pärnumaa, 39 trees and groups of trees of ten different species (oak, lime, pine,
spruce, white elm, elm, birch, downy birch, grey alder, white alder) are under protection.
The Panga Oak in Koonga Rural Municipality was the first to be placed under protection
in 1936. The thickest oak with 635 cm in girth grows in Tõstamaa Rural Municipality.
The thickest limes grow near the church of Mihkli. However, Pärnumaa’s best known
limes, called Kai, Mai and Riinu, have the form of wandering sisters in several legends.
Unpretentious species of fungi, lichens, mosses, invertebrates, birds, and mammals live
on and in the old primeval trees.
PARKS
As to parks, their historical structure, biodiversity, and natural and cultural heritage
are protected. The main natural value of protected forest stands is the old primeval
trees, which offer habitats to fungi, lichens, mosses, invertebrates, birds, and mammals.
32 parks have been placed under protection in Pärnumaa. The most remarkable and best
known parks are at Audru, Pärnu City, Voltveti Manor, etc.
Photo: Kastna Oak, M. Palginõmm
Photo: L. Koidula Park, M. Palginõmm
44
Photo: Tolkuse Study Trail, M. Palginõmm
REFERENCES
Aasmäe, H. et al. Pärnumaa I. Loodus. Aeg. Inimene. Estonian Encyclopaedia Publishers.
Tallinn 2008.
Kalda, T. Pärnumaa loodus. Pärnu County Environmental Authority of Ministry of the
Environment. Pärnu 2007.
Lekk, U., Kalda, T. Pärnu jõgi. Pärnu County Environmental Authority of Ministry of the
Environment. Pärnu 2007.
LINKS
Information page of Estonian Nature Information System
EELIS: http://loodus.keskkonnainfo.ee
Environmental Board: www.keskkonnaamet.ee
Environmental Inspectorate: www.kki.ee, damage to environment: phone 1313
Estonian Environment Information Centre: www.keskkonnainfo.ee
State Forest Management Centre: www.rmk.ee

pärnu county - Keskkonnaamet

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